University profile
Heriot-Watt University
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates
About
Why study at Heriot-Watt University?
Explore how specialist knowledge, practical learning and global connections can help turn ideas into meaningful action at Heriot-Watt University. Established in 1821 as the world’s first mechanics’ institute, the University has a long history of education shaped by the needs of business, industry and society. Students can choose from subjects including engineering, the built environment, actuarial science, computing, business, fashion, textiles and design. With five campuses across Scotland, Dubai and Malaysia, Heriot-Watt offers opportunities to study within an international community and develop skills that connect directly with the world of work.
At a glance
Heriot-Watt University in numbers
- 5Campuses
- 1821Founded
- #325QS World Ranking 2027
- 401–500THE World Ranking 2026
- #31Guardian 2026
- #46THE REF ranking 2021
- 27,000Students
Rankings
How it ranks
#325
QS World University Rankings 2027
401–500
Times Higher Education World Rankings 2026
#31
The Guardian University Guide 2026
#46
Times Higher Education REF Rankings 2021
Campus life
Gallery
Edinburgh campus
Dubai campus
Malaysia campus
Edinburgh campus
Edinburgh campus
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Where you'll study
Campus locations
Edinburgh Campus
Heriot-Watt’s largest campus is set within 380 acres of parkland on the outskirts of Edinburgh. It is home to courses across business, science, technology, engineering, mathematics and the social sciences, alongside specialist laboratories, student accommodation and extensive sports facilities.
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Scottish Borders Campus
Based in Galashiels at the heart of Scotland’s textile industry, this specialist campus is home to the University’s fashion, textiles and design courses. Students learn using industry-standard production equipment, workshops and creative facilities.
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Orkney Campus
Located in Stromness, the Orkney Campus offers a distinctive environment for postgraduate study and research connected to islands, marine environments, renewable energy and sustainability. Its surroundings provide a living laboratory for exploring real environmental and community challenges.
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Dubai Campus
Located in Dubai Knowledge Park, the Dubai Campus offers a broad range of professionally focused degree programmes. Modern teaching facilities and close connections with business and industry help students relate their studies to opportunities across the UAE and wider region.
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Malaysia Campus
Heriot-Watt’s purpose-built Malaysian campus is situated beside a lake in Putrajaya, south of Kuala Lumpur. The environmentally designed campus offers British degree programmes, modern learning facilities and opportunities to connect with Heriot-Watt’s wider global community.
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Scholarships
Ask your counsellor which of these you may be eligible for — they'll confirm the details before you apply.
- International Merit Scholarship
- Americas and Europe (Non-EU) Scholarship
- The Brodie Family Scholarship (UG)
Get to where you want to be with Heriot-Watt University
One application covers up to five universities, ranked in the order you prefer them.
